Fix the Red Ring of Death! (without towels!)

Step 6 Drill bigger holes

To use those 5MM machine screws, you'll need to widen the 8 screw holes in the metal case, that previously secured the X-clamp posts. They are highlighted in the second photo.

To widen them, use a 3/16 inch drill bit with a drill press or hand drill.
If you're using a hand drill, set a wooden block under each hole as you drill it, to avoid warping the case. If you're using a drill press as I did, there should be a steel pedestal with a hole for the drill bit to pass through, saving the case from serious FUBAR-age.

Have the bit spinning before you push into the center of the hole. Repeat this for all the holes. Make sure there are no burrs left on the holes or shards kicking around in the case afterwards. Bang it around a few times to get them out, the last thing you'd want is to have your 360 die from little pieces of metal shorting it out.

Comments

[TheSereminator]

I don't have a drill press or hand drill, but I do have a hand electric drill and plenty of different bits, would this be ok to use for widening the holes?

[Hingedmosquito]

I am sorry to disagree with this post but if you get the right supplies you do not need to drill holes at all. just do a little more research. maybe check out this site http://www.llamma.com/

[slavapalooza]

I am sorry to disagree with you, but I read the instructions on llama's website and it also calls for drilling larger holes. Maybe you should do a little more research.

[Hingedmosquito]

Have you fixed this problem before? I fixed mine and it has been working 2 years no problems and I didn't drill any holes. I simply found the right screws and washers and that was that.

[acrazyfeet]

since 2 years sounds like a hefty amount of time considering the quality of the original product, would you be so kind as to refer me to the site where you got your fixing tutorial from?

or, if you are inclined enough, would you be able to write your own guide?

I am seriously considering buying a RROD 360 and fixing it.

Thanks a bunch :]

[mvargas5]

he says the name of the website in the post right before the one you commented on, i don't understand? It is not that hard to look for the answers instead of acting hopeless!

http://www.llamma.com/
is what was mentioned and with two clicks I got here:
http://www.llamma.com/xbox360/repair/ring_of_light_x-clamp_fix.htm

[Mstocker]

drilling a hole is a nice way to do this, i tried doing that the first time i fixed a RROD, but honestly, i would just suggest getting screws that will fit through the motherboard and are short enough to just screw in and thats it. i always put my screws on underneath the metal casing, makes it easier to take apart if you ever need to. plus ive found it unnecessary to even use metal washers. just get big enough nylon ones and youll be good to go. good post though.

[goodcoldwater]

Lmao, I have the same drill press, only difference is mine is coated with corrosion inhibiting oil on the metal surfaces to keep it nice and shiny. Good sheeaht! Go Harbor Freight!!!! Yea! XD

[scottrod]

Where do I find 5 x 8mm screws? Can't find them at any local hardwared store or compter store.

[originaladam]

Commonly known as #10 machine screws.

[maxinater65]

scottrod: If u didn't disassemble yet dont go all the way. u may only need to do as I did in my post under maxinater65. just remove case and X-bars, clean heat sink past with finger nail or tooth pick, then bend bar to more of an angle to create more tension and reinstall. this worked fine for me. p.s. dont forget to put new heat sink paste on before re assembly?

[EpycFyre]

Once you've drilled the holes, if you take a much larger drill bit and twist it with your hand as if drilling the holes bigger into the case, you will effectively clean out the hole of any burrs and cleaning it nice and purty.

[crashrandall]

A "Step Drill" bit is a very good solution for widening existing holes in sheet metal, and much more affordable than a drill press. The design of the bit keeps it centered in the hole as you drill.

Available cheap from Harbor Freight, and a bit less cheap from Home Depot / Lowe's / etc.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=91616

[geekzapoppin]

As someone who can't afford a drill press (plus, I live in an apartment) your suggestion is a lifesaver!  Thank you!

[cdousley]

cool i may buy som but my dad has a drill press

[crd22]

The picture is a little misleading. All you need is a hand drill with the correct bit, not an industrial size drill press. Plus the piece of wood underneath is recommended.

[K.hall86]

putting a piece of scrap wood underneath will help on the press too because it gives the bit something to keep cutting, giving a more clean hole once drilled...